Duterte opinion sought on Justin-Hailey marriage

SELFIE MOMENT President Duterte (right), Hollywood actor and film producer Stephen Baldwin and Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go pose for a selfie on the sidelines of the 30th anniversary celebration of Toyota Motor Philippines on Wednesday night. Baldwin’s daughter, Hailey, and Canadian pop singer Justin Bieber, plan to marry. — MALACAÑANG PHOTO

What does President Duterte think about Canadian singer Justin Bieber marrying American model Hailey Baldwin?

That depends, the president said.

Hailey’s father, Hollywood actor and film producer Stephen Baldwin, asked the question when the two met on Wednesday on the sidelines of the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City.

“During the start of the meeting, Mr. Baldwin asked the President’s opinion on his daughter’s engagement to actor, singer and songwriter Mr. Justin Bieber,” said President Duterte’s special assistant, Christopher “Bong” Go.

“The President responded that as long as Mr. Bieber truly believes in the sanctity of marriage, Mr. Baldwin has nothing to worry about,” Go said.

Bieber confirmed in an Instagram photo posted last month that he and Hailey were engaged after dating for a month. The photo showed the couple kissing.

Bieber promised to put Hailey first and called her the love of his life.

Hailey Baldwin and Justin Bieber. FROM JUSTIN BIEBER’S INSTAGRAM

‘Kaibigan’ stars

Baldwin told the President that he and Assistant Presidential Communications Secretary Mocha Uson would star in the upcoming drug-themed movie “Kaibigan” to be produced by the American actor. Go also will play a role in the movie.

According to Go, Baldwin praised the President for his high trust rating, saying this indicated his successful leadership style.

“The President then explained that he was only trying to implement what he promised during the presidential campaign, which is to fight illegal drugs, put an end to corruption, and restore peace and security in the country,” Go said.

Baldwin invited the President to the premiere showing of the film set for October or November. The President said he would be there.

Message to youth

Baldwin said the movie had a message to the youth: Making the wrong choices in life would have consequences.

“(Baldwin) said that movies are one of the most effective ways to promote an advocacy, such as this. He also believes that if prevention from vices can be implemented early on, government leaders such as the President would have an easier job,” Go said.

Baldwin gave the President a copy of his autobiographical book, “The Unusual Suspect,” which deals with his “outlook on life after a making a personal commitment to Christ.” Mr. Duterte thanked Baldwin and said he would find time to read it.

“Baldwin will always be welcome to the country,” Go quoted the President as telling the actor and film producer.